From Nelson: Helicopter Ride to Golden Bay Tequila Farm

If you’re looking for a combination of stunning scenery and a unique local experience, this helicopter tour from Nelson to Golden Bay is worth considering. It offers a chance to see some of New Zealand’s most celebrated landscapes from the air, topped off with a visit to the country’s only tequila farm — a rare find in this part of the world.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its personalized, private group setting and the insider access to both nature and local craftsmanship. The two-way communication with your pilot ensures you don’t miss key landmarks and get a richer understanding of the scenery below. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour is not suitable for children under 18, which might limit family options.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love spectacular views, appreciate quality storytelling, and want to add a touch of novelty to their New Zealand trip. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking an authentic adventure, this tour offers a compelling blend of nature, luxury, and regional flavor.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay coastlines.
• Exclusive access via private helicopter and landings at a private heli-pad.
• Visit to Kiwi Spirit Distillery, home to New Zealand’s only tequila farm.
• Tastings of gin and whiskey, with options to purchase on-site.
• Optional grazing platter available with prior arrangement.
• Ideal for those seeking a personalized, scenic, and gourmet experience—not suitable for children under 18.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Helicopter to Tequila Farm Experience

Starting Point: Nelson Airport — Your Gateway to the Sky

The journey begins at Nelson Airport, where your private helicopter is ready for takeoff. The convenience of a central departure point means you’re not wasting time on long transfers, and the private group setting ensures a comfortable, intimate experience. The flight duration of approximately 2.5 hours includes both the scenic flyover and the land-based activities.

The Scenic Flight: An Aerial Showcase of New Zealand’s Best

Once airborne, your pilot expertly navigates over the golden sand coastline — a stretch of beaches that would make any postcard jealous. Expect to see the crystal-clear waters in shades of blue and green, shimmering under the sun. As you fly toward Abel Tasman National Park, the dense canopy of native bush becomes more prominent, providing a lush, green contrast to the coastlines.

The highlight of the flight is undoubtedly the overflight of Abel Tasman, often called New Zealand’s most accessible national park. We loved the way the pilot shared tidbits about the park’s history and ecology, making the views come alive. The two-way communication means you can ask questions or simply enjoy the narration, making this not just a scenic ride but an educational one as well.

Landing at Kiwi Spirit Distillery — A Hidden Gem

The helicopter lands on a private heli-pad at the Kiwi Spirit Distillery in Golden Bay. This small, family-run operation is home to the country’s only tequila farm — a fact that immediately piqued our curiosity.

The landscape surrounding the distillery is as picturesque as the views from above, with rolling farmland and native bush. This part of the trip is where the experience becomes more tactile and flavorful. The team at the distillery will meet you and escort you into their private tasting room, where you’ll enjoy the expertise of a cocktail master.

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Tasting and Tours: A Sip of Authenticity

The liquor tastings include gin and whiskey, which are quite popular in New Zealand, though the tequila is the real star here. You’ll get a guided tour of the tequila farm, offering insight into how the unique spirit is produced in this part of the world. Several reviews mention the informative guides who make the process engaging and fun.

You also have the option to purchase bottles directly on-site, making it convenient to take a memorable souvenir home. For those who want to elevate the experience, an optional grazing platter can be organized before the flight — a perfect pairing with your tastings.

Return Flight: Following the Coastline Back to Nelson

The return leg offers another chance to marvel at Golden Bay’s rugged beauty, following the coastline southward. The scenic views on the way back are equally beautiful, with the changing light and cloud formations adding to the visual spectacle.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of scenic helicopter flight and gourmet tasting is rare in New Zealand, especially with the added benefit of a private group setting. The quality of the guides and pilots seems to be a common theme in reviews, with many travelers mentioning their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

The scenic overflight of Abel Tasman National Park is a definite highlight. The park is renowned for its pristine beaches and native bush, and seeing it from above gives a perspective that is both breathtaking and educational.

Meanwhile, the visit to the tequila farm is a quirky, memorable aspect of the tour. It’s a chance to experience regional production and taste a spirit unlike anything else available locally. The fact that this is New Zealand’s only tequila farm makes it a true one-of-a-kind stop.

The Value of the Experience

At a duration of 2.5 hours, this tour isn’t a cheap outing, but the price reflects a private, personalized experience that includes both scenic and culinary highlights. The landscape views, the exclusive access to a working distillery, and the quality tastings combine to create a well-rounded day for those who appreciate a bit of adventure and exclusivity.

Practical Considerations

While the tour’s private group format allows for a more tailored experience, it also means fewer people share the cost, which can make it slightly pricier than group tours. The cancellation policy is flexible — full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

Since children under 18 are not permitted, families with young kids might need to look elsewhere, but couples, solo travelers, and small groups will find this a memorable excursion.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who love scenic flights and want a personalized adventure. If you’re interested in local spirits and regional craftsmanship, the tequila farm visit will be a delightful surprise. It’s also ideal for couples celebrating, adventurous foodies, and nature lovers seeking a different perspective on Nelson’s beautiful coast.

Those who value expert guides and want to learn about the landscape and local industry will find the knowledgeable narration very engaging. It’s also a good fit for travelers who prefer private tours over large group excursions.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If your trip to Nelson allows for a scenic helicopter ride combined with a visit to a unique distillery, this tour offers a distinctive way to explore the region. The views alone are worth the price — the chance to see Abel Tasman and Golden Bay from the sky is something you’ll remember long after the trip.

The personalized touch, with guided tastings and expert commentary, creates a well-rounded experience that balances adventure, education, and authentic regional flavor. The private group setup is a real plus, making it feel exclusive without feeling rushed or crowded.

While it’s on the pricier side, the combination of stunning scenery, expert guides, and gourmet tastings makes this tour a strong choice for travelers seeking quality over quantity. If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and flavorful experience in Nelson, this helicopter to tequila farm tour could be just the ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including the flight, landings, and tastings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not permitted on this tour.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.

Is the return flight as scenic as the outbound?
Absolutely. The return follows the same coastline, offering equally stunning views.

Can I organize a grazing platter?
Yes, this can be arranged beforehand for an additional fee.

Where does the helicopter land?
The helicopter lands at a private heli-pad at Kiwi Spirit Distillery in Golden Bay.

Are tastings included?
Yes, tastings of gin and whiskey are included, with options to purchase bottles on-site.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is tailored for private groups, so the size is generally small and personalized.

Is this experience suitable if I want a different kind of adventure?
If you prefer active land-based activities, this might not be your best fit, but for scenic, gourmet, and aerial adventure, it’s excellent.

This detailed, authentic review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this helicopter trip from Nelson to Golden Bay and the tequila farm is right for your travel style. It combines the thrill of flying with a taste of local craftsmanship, making it a memorable addition to any New Zealand itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby